Discover the Delightful Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad Recipe Today

Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with the irresistible combination of Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad! This vibrant and flavorful dish is a delightful blend of creamy feta, juicy cranberries, and crunchy walnuts, all tossed in a refreshing orange vinaigrette. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying lunch or a side that steals the show, this Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire.

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Salads are not only a delicious way to enjoy a balanced meal, but they also provide an abundance of essential nutrients. This Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad is no exception, featuring a variety of wholesome ingredients that nourish your body. From the high-fiber penne pasta to the antioxidant-rich cranberries and the heart-healthy walnuts, every bite packs a nutritional punch.

Ingredients Breakdown

Let’s take a closer look at the key ingredients that make this Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad a standout dish:

• 8 oz penne pasta: Whole grain or gluten-free pasta options are great choices, providing additional fiber and nutrients to the salad.
• ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled: Feta is a tangy, creamy cheese that adds a delightful flavor and texture to the salad. It’s also a good source of protein and calcium.
• ½ cup dried cranberries: Dried cranberries are bursting with antioxidants and natural sweetness, complementing the savory feta perfectly.
• ¼ cup toasted walnuts, chopped: Walnuts bring a satisfying crunch and a boost of healthy fats, including omega-3s, to the salad.
• 2 cups baby spinach: Leafy greens like spinach provide essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber, making this salad a nutritious powerhouse.
• ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced: Red onion adds a subtle pungency and vibrant color to the salad, balancing the other flavors.
• ¼ cup fresh orange juice: The orange juice serves as the base for the tangy-sweet vinaigrette, infusing the salad with a refreshing citrus note.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Olive oil is a heart-healthy fat that helps to emulsify the vinaigrette and distribute the flavors evenly.
• 1 tablespoon honey: Honey adds a touch of natural sweetness to the vinaigrette, complementing the tanginess of the orange juice.
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Dijon mustard acts as an emulsifier, binding the vinaigrette ingredients together and adding a subtle kick of flavor.
• ½ teaspoon salt: A pinch of salt helps to balance and enhance the overall flavor profile of the salad.
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Black pepper adds a warm, aromatic note that ties the entire dish together.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that you’ve familiarized yourself with the delightful ingredients, let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions for preparing this Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad:

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, rinse it under cold water, and set it aside.

Make the Orange Vinaigrette: In a small bowl, whisk together the fresh orange juice, olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until the dressing is well combined and emulsified.

Assemble the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked penne pasta, crumbled feta cheese, dried cranberries, toasted walnuts, baby spinach, and thinly sliced red onion.

Dress and Toss: Drizzle the orange vinaigrette over the salad and gently toss everything together until the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.

Variations and Modifications

The beauty of this Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad is that it can be easily adapted to suit your dietary needs or personal preferences. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Vegan or Dairy-Free: Swap the feta cheese for a dairy-free alternative, such as crumbled tofu or a plant-based cheese. You can also omit the cheese altogether and add extra nuts or seeds for a protein boost.

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free penne pasta or another gluten-free pasta shape of your choice to make this salad suitable for those with dietary restrictions.

Add Protein: To make this salad more filling, consider adding grilled chicken, roasted turkey, or cooked chickpeas. These protein-rich ingredients will transform the salad into a complete and satisfying meal.

Seasonal Variations: Embrace the seasons by swapping the dried cranberries for diced apples or pears in the fall, or fresh berries in the summer. You can also experiment with different nuts, such as pecans or almonds, to complement the changing flavors.

Nutritional Information

One serving of this Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad provides approximately:

• Calories: 350
• Total Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Cholesterol: 20mg
• Sodium: 400mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 43g
• Dietary Fiber: 5g
• Sugars: 13g
• Protein: 12g

This salad is a well-balanced dish that provides a good source of complex carbohydrates, healthy fats, and protein. The leafy greens, cranberries, and walnuts also contribute important vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to support overall health. Pairing this Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with a lean protein or a whole-grain side dish can make it an even more satisfying and nutritious meal.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Quinoa Salad with Feta and Cranberries
• Spinach and Feta Stuffed Chicken
• Mediterranean Pasta Salad
• Orange and Walnut Spinach Salad

FAQs

What is the best type of pasta to use for Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad?

While penne pasta is the traditional choice for this salad due to its tubular shape that holds dressing well, you can also consider using whole grain or gluten-free pasta options. Whole grain pasta adds extra fiber and nutrients, while gluten-free options cater to those with dietary restrictions. Other pasta shapes like rotini or farfalle could also work well, providing a different texture and visual appeal. Ultimately, choose a pasta that suits your dietary preferences and taste!

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried cranberries in the salad?

Fresh cranberries are quite tart and not as sweet as dried cranberries, which could significantly change the flavor profile of your salad. If you prefer to use fresh cranberries, consider sweetening them slightly by cooking them with a bit of sugar or honey before adding them to the salad. This will help balance their tartness and mimic the sweetness found in dried cranberries, ensuring a more harmonious flavor in your Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad.

How can I add protein to the Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad without compromising its flavor?

To add protein without compromising the flavors of the salad, consider incorporating grilled chicken, chickpeas, or roasted turkey. Grilled chicken or turkey adds a savory element that complements the feta and cranberries, while chickpeas are a great vegetarian option that adds both protein and fiber. Additionally, you could sprinkle some toasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds for a crunchy texture and extra protein without overwhelming the salad’s taste.

What is the best way to store leftover Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad?

To store leftover Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat, as this will prevent the salad from becoming soggy. When stored properly, the salad can last for about 3-4 days. Before serving leftovers, give the salad a gentle toss and adjust the dressing if necessary, as the flavors may have mellowed during storage.

Conclusion

The Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad with Orange Vinaigrette is a delightful and nutritious dish that will quickly become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. With its vibrant flavors, crunchy textures, and balanced nutritional profile, this salad is the perfect choice for a satisfying lunch, a side dish, or a stunning addition to your next gathering. Experiment with different variations and seasonal ingredients to keep your taste buds intrigued, and enjoy the refreshing, flavor-packed experience of this Feta & Cranberry Penne Salad.

Craving even more magical meals? Browse Amelia’s Pinterest boards for quick dinners, cozy bakes, and tons of flavorful inspiration.

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